Kisii University to build 19-storey student hostel, VC says

Kisii University is set to receive a major boost in student accommodation with the construction of a 19-storey student village within the campus, Vice Chancellor Prof Nathan Ogechi has said.

The high-rise facility is expected to provide much-needed accommodation for students as the institution expands its infrastructure and seeks to position itself as a world-class academic institution.

Prof Ogechi said the Government-funded project, being undertaken under the affordable housing programme, would also transform the skyline of Kisii town and become the tallest building in the county capital once completed.

Speaking on Tuesday during the university’s matriculation ceremony for newly admitted students, Prof Ogechi said the project formed part of ongoing efforts to expand infrastructure and improve students’ welfare.

“This is a Government project being done under the ongoing affordable housing programme and when completed, it will be the tallest building in this region,” Prof Ogechi said.

He said the investment was necessary as the university continues to admit more students, putting pressure on existing accommodation facilities.

“We are growing, and as we grow, we must ensure that our infrastructure grows with us. Accommodation is an important part of creating a conducive environment for learning,” he said.

The project is expected to ease the burden on students who currently depend heavily on private accommodation facilities outside the university.

Prof Ogechi said the university had admitted about 7,000 students for the current academic year, further increasing demand for accommodation.

He said the institution was committed to creating an environment where students could concentrate on their studies without being distracted by housing challenges.

“We want our students to have decent and secure accommodation. They should come to university to learn, undertake research and develop themselves, not to struggle with where they will sleep,” he said.

The proposed student village comes as Kisii University continues to expand its infrastructure to cope with a growing student population.

The project was mooted during the tenure of former Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu, who represented Kisii County in the National Assembly before joining the Cabinet.

Once completed, the 19-storey structure is expected to significantly increase the university’s accommodation capacity while giving Kisii a new architectural landmark.

Prof Ogechi also challenged the newly admitted students to make good use of the opportunities presented by university education.

“You have come here to acquire knowledge and skills that will shape your future. Take your studies seriously, respect one another and make use of the opportunities available to you,” he told the students.

He said the university would continue investing in facilities that support teaching, learning, research and student welfare.

The tower is expected to attract considerable attention as construction progresses, both for its potential to address student accommodation challenges and its impact on Kisii’s rapidly changing urban skyline.

For Kisii University, the project represents more than an additional building. It is part of an expansion programme aimed at preparing the institution for a larger student population and a more competitive higher education environment.